Microsoft has officially launched the Windows 365 Link. While this device looks like a mini PC, the approach is quite different from typical compact desktop computers on the consumer market. Microsoft is clearly targeting business customers with the Windows 365 Link, which is priced at $349 and available through various authorized sellers. That said, the necessary Windows 365 cloud subscription is not included in this price.
Most importantly, the Windows 365 Link doesn’t run Windows and applications locally, but it rather acts as an access terminal for Windows 365. Specifically, this mini PC can be used to access a cloud-based virtual machine, which obviously requires a fast internet connection. Microsoft advertises various advantages such as security, as the Redmond-based software giant handles the protection against external threats. Administrators only need to take care of the physical access to the device itself, and the setup process is supposed to take just a few minutes.
From a hardware perspective, the Microsoft mini PC is equipped with three USB 3.2 Type-A and one USB Type-C 3.2 port, in addition to one HDMI and DisplayPort each. Network access can be established via Ethernet or WiFi, but the Windows 365 Link also supports Bluetooth and comes with a 3.5mm jack for headsets. Last but not least, the compact computer measures just 4.7 x 4.7 x 1.2 inches and is powered by an Intel N250 with 8GB RAM and 64GB UFS storage, Kensington Lock is onboard as well.